Ceylon tea from Sri Lanka – regions & flavor
Ceylon tea comes from what is now Sri Lanka and is considered one of the most famous black teas in the world. The mild, subtropical climate, the high altitudes of the central highlands, and the different harvest times shape its fine, brisk character.
From full-bodied Uva teas to softer Dimbula varieties and the bright, citrusy teas from Nuwara Eliya: Ceylon offers an impressive variety.
Tea from present-day Sri Lanka
The tea from present-day Sri Lanka is traditionally named after the country's former name, Ceylon. Accounting for approx. 60% of export revenue, tea is the most important export commodity for this country with its mild, subtropical climate and diverse vegetation. The most important tea-growing regions are located in the central highlands.
The altitudes of Ceylon tea
Ceylon tea is classified into three categories: low-growns grow below 650 meters, mediums between 650 and 1300 meters, and high-growns from 1300 to 2500 meters.
Low-growns: below 650 meters
Mediums: 650 to 1300 meters
High-growns: 1300 to 2500 meters
Uva, Dimbula, and Nuwara Eliya
Around Adam's Peak, there are three tea districts in the central highlands: Uva in the east, Dimbula in the west, and Nuwara Eliya in between. Monsoon and trade winds determine the quality period.
The best full-bodied, robust, and brisk tea varieties grow in the Uva district between June and September.
In the Dimbula district, teas with lower tannin content are harvested between December and March, which have a softer, lighter cup than the Uvas.
In the Nuwara Eliya district, good qualities are harvested all year round. These teas taste similar to those from Dimbula and have a characteristic lemon profile.
Depending on the district, Ceylon teas are robust, brisk, soft, light, or citrusy. The high-grown teas in particular often display a clear, elegant cup.
Broken tea from the highlands
In the highlands, more than 90% of tea production is manufactured as broken tea. For this reason, one often finds very good Ceylon broken teas and less frequently good Ceylon leaf teas.
Ceylon tea is a very good choice for anyone looking for a clear, brisk, and finely aromatic black tea. Depending on its origin, it is suitable both enjoyed pure or with a little milk or lemon.
Discover further growing regions
Discover other important tea regions and tea cultures – from Assam and Darjeeling to China, Japan, and East Frisia.
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